Root Amputation

Root amputation is a specialized dental procedure, whereby one root is removed from a multi-root tooth. The tooth is then stabilized and rendered fully functional with a crown or filling. The multi-root teeth best suited to the root amputation procedure are the molars at the back of the mouth. These large flat teeth have either two or three roots depending on whether they are situated on the upper or lower jaw.

The general purpose of root amputation is to save an injured or diseased tooth from extraction. Most dentists agree that there is no better alternative than retaining a healthy natural tooth, and the root amputation procedure makes this possible. Dental implants, extensive bridgework and custom-made tooth replacements can be expensive and time-consuming. Generally, root amputation and the necessary crown work are less expensive and can be completed in 1-3 short visits.

When is root amputation necessary?

It is important to note that root amputation can only be performed on an otherwise healthy tooth. Even in the case of a “key” tooth, extraction will be performed if the tooth is diseased, badly fractured or otherwise injured. Suitable teeth for root amputation have a healthy tooth surface, strong bone support and healthy underlying gums.

There are several problems that may lead to root amputation including:

Broken, fractured or injured teeth and roots.

Embedded bacteria within the structure of the root.

Severe bone loss in a concentrated area due to periodontitis.

Tooth decay in a concentrated area of the tooth.

What does root amputation involve?

Prior to root amputation, it is necessary to perform root canal treatment. The amputation itself involves cutting deep into the tooth where blood vessels and nerves are located. For this reason, the pulp of the tooth including these vessels and nerves needs to be removed before resectioning the roots. The root canal and amputation treatments will be performed under local anesthetic.

During the root amputation procedure, a small incision will be created in the gum to fully expose the roots of the affected tooth. The root will be sectioned off from the rest of the tooth and then removed. To kill any remaining bacteria, the whole area will be cleansed with saline solution, and then sutures (stitches) will be applied to seal the incision.

Finally, a temporary crown or filling will be placed to secure the tooth. Depending on the specific situation, painkillers, antibiotics and a medicated anti-microbial mouthwash may be prescribed. In 7-10 days, the stitches will be removed and the gum will have healed. Arrangements can now be made to place the permanent crown or filling.

If you have any questions or concerns about root amputation, please ask Dr. Neal.

Testimonials

Email from patient to Dr. Neal titled: It was a dark and rainy night - How a Landmark Dental employee saved a Neal patient

"In mounting pain for over a month, Nicole managed to surreptitiously remove a piece of something trapped between my gum and #14 tooth......I was (gratefully) popped in on an emergency appointment (thank you Sarah). I would love to know how Nicole was able to locate and remove the morsel, which must have been causing the continued pain, because when I drove home I noticed for the first time in weeks the pain was abating.

The circumstances for the recommendation of my using the Perio Plus are now vague in my mind, but when Sarah found out I lived in Victoria, she offered to drop off a bottle to me on her way home. Sarah doesn't live next door to me, you understand, but in her mind, it was close enough to warrant her going out of her way to make sure I was able to start using the Perio Plus quickly.

She did indeed drive all the way to our home, in the dark, pretty late at night, pulling in to the wrong, but close, driveway down the street, and calling me on her cell. I flew out of the house, phone in my hand, dressing gowned and slippered, in the dark and rainy night, running down the street to grab the bottle and give her a kiss for her trouble.

What a terrific staff! Going way beyond the call of duty, demonstrating true caring and support. One could never imagine any employee stretching themselves for a patient that way. I am impressed and grateful. Imagine the loyalty such an action motivates. Who hired this woman? Kudos!

Thank you from the heart.
Shelly S

Patient: Shelley S.

Quality work, done very efficiently, with no pain, and friendly service! What more can you ask for from a dental office! This father and son dental team are clearly very knowledgeable and definitely some of the best on the island. Their staff are fun to be around, very courteous, and helpful. The office is very cozy, neat, and ocean views to boot!! Highly recommended!!!

Contact Us

We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below. E-mails are checked once per day Monday through Friday. If a reply or appointment booking is needed immediately, or to change a previously reserved appointment time, please phone us directly at 250-656-4848.